JAYAPURA – Papua has reaffirmed its readiness to become Indonesia’s Sports Province after officially submitting all required documents and administrative requirements to the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

With the submission complete, Papua is now only awaiting a Presidential Decree to formalize the status.

Acting Head of the Papua Sports and Youth Office, Sonya Monim, stated that the proposal process was carried out in accordance with regulations. Various stages, from focus group discussions to joint deliberations with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, have already been conducted, further strengthening Papua’s position.

“All processes have been completed in line with the regulations. Now we are just waiting for the President’s decision,” Monim said in Jayapura, Friday (September 12, 2025).

She explained that the final regulation will be determined by the central government through a Presidential Decree or Regulation. Such legal certainty is essential to solidify Papua’s status as a Sports Province.

Monim also emphasized that the recent change of the Minister of Youth and Sports will not affect the process already undertaken.

“Even though the leadership has changed, the documents remain and the procedures continue. We hope that Papua’s proposal as a Sports Province will proceed and be officially confirmed,” she said. ***